Zuni/Navajo Fetishes

A fetish is a Native American carving believed to have power. Many Native American tribes create and use fetishes, the most renowned fetish carvers are the Zuni, who call themselves Asiwi (Ah-she-wee). The Zuni have used fetishes for many purposes: to enable hunters to catch game, to make game more plentiful, and also for curing ceremonies. Fetishes may protect individuals as well as the community.

The Zuni believe that animals are more like the deities and have more power than man. They also believe that both practical and spiritual power reside in their fetishes. A 'gift bundle' or offering is sometimes placed on the back of the fetish to encourage the animal spirit to share its power or knowledge with us. They honor the spirit of the animal by giving what is most sacred: turquoise, coral, or heishi. It is also believed that the care a fetish receives is directly proportional to the protection it will provide. Zunis believe that Fetishes must be properly cared for. When not in use, Zuni fetishes are given a place of honor in a ceremonial pottery bowl with a small amount of sacred cornmeal or pollen placed in the bottom to appease the spirit of the fetish. There is a hole in the side of the pot to 'feed' the fetish and keep the spirit free. The pots are covered with a thin layer of crushed turquoise and decorated around the sides with directional fetishes.

The rabbit is believed to be the special guardian of women in child birth and is also associated with safe birth and long life for children. It represents gentleness, charm and awareness of others. The rabbit also represents virtue and serenity.